Justin Hemmes: The Hospitality King Midas

Justin Hemmes is one of Australia's most successful businessmen, with a net worth estimated to be in the billions. He is the founder and CEO of the Merivale Group, which owns and operates over 100 pubs, restaurants, hotels, and other venues across Australia.

Hemmes is known for his keen eye for detail and his ability to create unique and innovative hospitality experiences. He has been credited with transforming Sydney's nightlife scene and making the city one of the world's top dining destinations.

In recent years, Hemmes has expanded his empire beyond Australia, with ventures in New York City and London. He is also a major property investor, with a portfolio of valuable properties in Sydney and Melbourne.

Hemmes is a fascinating character, known for his colorful personality and his love of the good life. He is also a generous philanthropist, supporting a number of charities.

Hemmes was born in Sydney in 1972. He dropped out of school at the age of 16 to work in his family's pub business. He quickly learned the ropes and showed a natural talent for the industry.

In 1995, Hemmes took over the Merivale Group from his father. At the time, the company was struggling, with only a handful of venues.

Under Hemmes' leadership, Merivale has grown into one of Australia's most successful hospitality groups. The company now owns and operates over 100 venues, including some of Sydney's most iconic landmarks, such as the Ivy, the Establishment, and the Coogee Pavilion.

Hemmes' success is due to a number of factors, including his keen eye for detail, his ability to create unique and innovative hospitality experiences, and his strong business acumen.

Hemmes is not only a successful businessman but also a generous philanthropist. He has donated millions of dollars to a number of charities, including the Salvation Army, the Sydney Children's Hospital, and the Garvan Institute of Medical Research.

Hemmes is also a family man. He has three children with his wife, Kate Fowler. The family lives in a luxurious mansion in Sydney's eastern suburbs.

Hemmes is a complex and controversial figure. He has been praised for his business success and philanthropy, but he has also been criticized for his lavish lifestyle and his occasional brushes with the law.

In 2008, Hemmes was charged with drink driving after being caught driving his Ferrari at twice the legal blood alcohol limit. He was fined and had his license suspended.

In 2014, Hemmes was involved in a physical altercation with a photographer outside one of his venues. He was charged with assault, but the charges were later dropped.

Despite these controversies, Hemmes remains one of Australia's most successful and influential businessmen. He is a true hospitality icon and a major force in the Australian business landscape.